Workers Memorial Day

Every year on April 28, the unions of the AFL-CIO observe Workers Memorial Day to remember those who have been injured or killed on the job and to renew the fight for strong safety and health protections.

Four decades ago, Congress passed the Occupational Safety and Health Act, promising every worker the right to a safe job. Unions and our allies have fought hard to make that promise a reality—winning protections that have made jobs safer, saved hundreds of thousands of lives and prevented millions of workplace injuries and illnesses.

But our work is not done.

Many job hazards are unregulated and uncontrolled. Some employers cut corners and violate the law, putting workers in serious danger and costing lives. Workers who report job hazards or job injuries are fired or disciplined. Employers contract out dangerous work to try to avoid responsibility. As a result, each year thousands of workers are killed and millions more injured or diseased because of their jobs.

The Obama administration has moved forward to strengthen protections with tougher enforcement and a focus on workers’ rights. But much-needed safeguards on silica and other workplace hazards have stalled in the face of fierce attacks by business groups and the Republican majority in the U.S. House of Representatives who want to stop new protections.

Participate

Workers Memorial Day information and materials can be found on the AFL-CIO’s Web site. APWU local and state organizations are encouraged to contact their AFL-CIO State or Central Labor Councils to locate events in their area.

Suggestions on how to organize an observance can be obtained by calling the labor federation’s Safety and Health Department at (202) 637-5366.

Reports and photos of APWU participation Workers’ Memorial Day activities should be mailed to the APWU Communications Dept. 1300 L Street, N.W. Washington, DC 20005 or sent via e-mail to photos@apwu.org.